Fire problem, distribution of fires and analysis of important fires in Mersin-Gülnar forests

Abstract

The state of the forest fires in the areas affiliated to Gulnar Forest Management Directorate, distribution of the number and size of forest fires by Forest Management Divisions and settlement areas, preventive measures taken against fire and the practices for the effective control of fire and the impacts of such control practices were analysed in this study. The educational and awareness-raising activities undertaken by Gulnar Forest Management Directorate in order to decrease the number and size of forest fire, transportation, fire-fighting teams, hand tools used and motor vehicles, observation, fire safety roads and lanes, organization of communication, pools and ponds, the quantity and properties of the instruments and equipment used to control fire, planning of their deployment in appropriate spots, use of air vehicles, and the contributions of the other institutions were analysed. In the light of the analysis results, the effectiveness of fire prevention and control practices were analysed, and recommendations were suggested to minimize the damage of fire on forests. In addition, three major fires were assessed: Pembecik in 2007, Buyukeceli in 2008 and Beydili region in 2012.